Steps to Create a Viewport in AutoCAD 2021
Creating a viewport in AutoCAD is crucial for displaying different views of your model in a layout. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to achieve this in AutoCAD 2021.
1. Preparing Your Layout
- Begin by navigating to the layout tab where you want to insert the viewport. This is usually found at the bottom of the AutoCAD interface.
- Set your current layer to a layer specifically designated for layout viewports. This helps keep the viewport organized within your drawing.
2. Accessing the Viewport Tool
- Go to the Layout tab in the ribbon.
- Locate the Layout Viewports panel.
- Click on the Insert View option. This is where you can insert a standard viewport.
3. Inserting a Standard Viewport
- A list of predefined scales will appear upon right-clicking. Choose a scale that suits your project requirements.
- Click to place the viewport on your layout where you wish it to appear.
4. Adjusting Viewport Properties
- After creating the viewport, select it to access its properties.
- Use the Properties palette to alter aspects such as scale, view, and locking status. Adjusting these settings ensures that your viewport displays the exact information needed.
5. Activating the Viewport
- To work inside the viewport, double-click within the viewport area. This allows you to adjust the view as necessary.
- You can zoom in or modify the view to focus on particular details of your model.
6. Locking the Viewport
- To prevent accidental changes to the viewport, it’s advisable to lock it.
- With the viewport selected, go back to the Layout Viewports panel and click the Lock option. This secures your current view and scale, ensuring they remain intact.
Creating a Custom-Shaped Viewport
If you need a viewport that doesn’t conform to a standard rectangle shape, follow these steps:
1. Using Polygonal Viewports
- Navigate to View > Viewports > Polygonal Viewport.
- Click to specify points around the perimeter of your desired viewport shape. Remember to form a closed shape to properly establish boundaries.
2. Converting Objects into Viewports
- You can also use existing closed shapes as viewport boundaries. Go to View > Viewports > Object.
- Select a closed object, like a circle or a polyline drawn in paper space. AutoCAD will convert this object into a viewport.
Reshaping an Existing Viewport
If changes need to be made to an already created viewport’s shape:
1. Redefining the Boundary
- Click on the desired layout tab to ensure you are in the correct workspace.
- Select an existing shape to redefine it as the viewport boundary or create a new boundary by specifying points.
- Upon completing your selection, click OK to confirm the new boundary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I create multiple viewports at once in AutoCAD 2021?
Yes, you can create multiple viewports using the Mview command by typing MVIEW into the command line and following the on-screen prompts.
Q2: What should I do if my viewport is not displaying correctly?
If the viewport shows the wrong view, ensure it is activated by double-clicking inside it, and adjust the view as necessary. You can also check the layer settings to ensure everything is properly configured.
Q3: How do I unlock a locked viewport in AutoCAD?
To unlock a viewport, select it, go to the layout viewport options, and click the Unlock option. You can also type MVLOCK and choose the "OFF" setting in the command line to unlock it.
